Just a few years ago (or so it seems), it was still a bit odd to hear someone say they were online dating. But now, starting a relationship online is growing more common by the day.
Did you know that 36% of Canadians date online? Whether you’re using actual dating platforms or striking up a connection with someone in your Instagram DMs, meeting someone online can be a great way to find genuine relationships.
mmmmmmmmmmm
However, statistics also show some negatives regarding the world of online dating. 53% of users lie on their profiles. Usually, these lies are less “serious” and could be the twisting of facts regarding one’s age, height, or career success. However, most of us have also heard of more serious cases of online connections gone wrong. It’s essential to take steps to ensure your safety when chatting with someone who is a complete stranger.
Ways to Stay Safe
The first tip is always to avoid sharing personal information. Do not share where you live or where you work. Check the photos you are showing online to ensure that the background does not reveal private information (such as your house number or what your house looks like from the outside, your vehicle and license plate, etc.).
Even information that seems harmless to share should be considered carefully. For example, something as simple as a recommendation request can be problematic when dealing with a predator. Your new online friend might ask which dentist or hairdresser you go to and recommend. However, this gives away more about your private life and makes you easier to track down.
mmmmmmmmmmm
Some other tips to consider for your safety:
-
- Use a different dating profile photo than the ones you use on your social media. Images can be reverse searched, and your personal social media accounts can be easily located if you’re using the same photos.
- Use a username other than your real name, especially at the beginning of getting to know the person (and before you’ve had more solid confirmation that they’re likely being honest about who they are).
- Use the platform’s messaging system, so you do not need to give out your phone number for texting.
- If you decide to meet in person, meet and stay in a public place. Use your own vehicle and do not accept a ride from the individual. Ensure that somebody you know and trust knows the time and location of the meet-up.
- Even as the relationship progresses, remember: if you do not want an image of yourself to be shared publicly, don’t send it to anyone.
- Be suspicious if someone claims they love you early on in your communications and if they push to know your private e-mail address, phone number, etc.
- If you have kids, ensure that you do not share photos of them or, in the beginning, even the fact that you have kids. There are child predators online who target single mothers to get to their children.
- Trust your gut!
mmmmmmmmmmm
We’re not looking to scare anyone away from finding meaningful relationships online – online dating has led to wonderful relationships and marriages for many people! However, caution and safety measures are vital in ensuring that you do not experience being catfished (being tricked into believing the person you are communicating with online is someone different from who they are), or becoming the victim of assault and abuse.
If you have ever experienced sexual assault or abuse, please know that we are here to help. You do not need to have a perfect recollection of the incident, nor do you need evidence to reach out to us. Even if the phone you used for your online relationship is no longer in your possession, it is still worth reaching out as there are other ways to request evidence. Your case and story deserve to be heard.
Should you choose to connect with us, our toll-free phone number is 1-833-585-4145. We offer a free consultation, and you are not obligated to continue with our services afterward if you do not wish to. You can also connect with us via our website.
We are passionate about our clients, and we are good at what we do.